Research Methods

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"In the broadest sense of the word,the definition of research includes any

gathering of data,information and facts

for the advancement of knowledge" (Research).

- Martin Shuttleworth



Why Research Is Important:
Research can be used in every area of life. Research is used to solve problems, expand knowledge, or introduce new ideas. Ideas will only be considered official theories or factual when they can be backed up with research.

Hypothesis: Official statement used in testing an idea or theory.
Strengths: The positives of this type of study, or what this study is good for.
Limitations: Reasons that this may not be the best type of study for this specific topic.
Reliability: Likelihood that an experiment can be repeated.
Validity: Accuracy of an experiment.


What Goes into Experimental Research:
Before research can be completed, one must have developed a theory. A theory gives explanation to the variables involved in a study. Regardless of the type of experimental research, there is a set of variables. There are three types of variables—independent variables, dependent variables, and controlled variables. An independent variable is one that does not depend on any other variable in the study. A dependent variable is one that is contingent on other variables in the study. A controlled variable remains constant throughout the entirety of the study.


Lab experiments are completed in controlled environments. These types of experiments are controlled by the researcher. Everything is planned out ahead of time, from the location, length of time, number of people, and procedures that will be used. Lab experiments are best for determining cause-and-effect interactions.
Strengths:

• Allows for control
• Minimal external interception
• High validity

Limitations:

• Artificial design
• May not represent “real life” due to the lab setting

Field Experiments are also known as naturalistic observation, and take place in a natural setting. Examples of locations for field experiments include schools, businesses, organizations, and outside environments.
Strengths:

• Results are better for generalizing
• Can be used for natural disasters and other tragedies that are unable to be repeated

Limitations:

• Difficult to determine cause-and-effect
• Random subject assignment or lack of control

Correlational Research is used to compare variables, and either provide support or lack of support for a relationship between the variables.
Strengths:

• Identify relationships

Limitations:

• Cannot determine cause and effect

Surveys are used to identify the opinions or feelings of people. Surveys are ideal for determining correlations between variables. Surveys can be completed by telephone, in person, through paper mail, online, and more. Surveys can be used to target a specific sample of people. This method is best to gather general information on a larger group of people, rather than delving into the details of a singular person.
Strengths:

• Mail in or online surveys may have more honest results
• Can gather a lot of information at once

Limitations:

• There is usually a small return rate for surveys not completed in person
• Lack of response may cause the sample to be inaccurate for an entire population

A Case Study is an in depth examination of a particular person, place, or event. Case studies are often completed via interview, observation, follow-ups, or a combination of the three.
Strengths:

• Provides great detail on a small sample or individual

Limitations:

• Hard to apply to a population

Resources (Information)

Correlational Research
Psychology Research Methods

Psychology Research Methods (Simply Psychology)
Research

Types of Research

By Stacey Frizzell 10/7/2013

Resources (Images)

http://startupweekend.org/2013/08/08/is-academic-research-on-entrepreneurship-worthwhile/
http://ttlearning.com/high-school-students-learn-about-the-psat-writing-section/
http://sgspsychology.webs.com/correlations.htm